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Football Quote by Walter Tevis

“And winning; that can be heavy on your back, too, like a monkey. You drop that load too when you find yourself an excuse." ... And Bert seemed to relax, knowing he had scored, had pushed his way through Eddie’s consciousness and through his defenses, although Eddie still only partly understood all…” quote by Walter Tevis
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““And winning; that can be heavy on your back, too, like a monkey. You drop that load too when you find yourself an excuse." ... And Bert seemed to relax, knowing he had scored, had pushed his way through Eddie’s consciousness and through his defenses, although Eddie still only partly understood all of what Bert had said, and was already prepared to rationalize the truth out of what he did understand. But Bert had suddenly quit pushing, and seemed now to be merely relaxing with his drink. "That’s your problem," he said.””

Walter Tevis

About This Quote

Source Book: The Man Who Fell to Earth, Walter Tevis, 1963

Winning can become a burden, like a heavy load, and people often make excuses to avoid its weight.

In simple terms: Success can feel heavy and lead to excuses.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and release the weight of success.

Themes

responsibility burden excuses self-awareness

Mood

reflective serious

Type

literary dialogue

When to use this quote

  • career advancement
  • personal achievement
  • team dynamics
  • stress management

Key Concepts

psychology pressure identity consciousness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you handle the pressure of success?
  • What excuses do you make when feeling overwhelmed?
A Different Perspective

Success may also bring stress and guilt, not just triumph.

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